and it was great fun to delve into details about train travel in the 1920s. Each line was somewhat different in terms of service, train length, stops, and so on. Overall, going by rail could be a wonderful, luxurious experience for those who could afford top-notch accommodations. The decoupling that occurs in the book was a rare event, but it suited the plot.
Colorado College is a real school with a solid history as a progressive institution. Thanks to my friend Ellen. an alum, for fact-checking the details! Pikeley College is a fabrication. No such university existed, nor do I imagine that any real person resembles Professor Mathers. Having held the title of Visting Assistant Professor for several years (it was a job where the title and salary were worlds apart), I never knew anyone like him. Like all my characters, he is fully fictional.
It is great fun to make up characters, places, and all for novels because, like Doro, I have a vivid imagination.
I hope you enjoy the book! Happy sleuthing!